U.S. Supports ‘Largely’ Phasing Out Fossil Fuels, Kerry Says at COP28

"There is growing pressure at COP28 to proclaim an end to coal, oil and gas. It’s the most contentious issue at the global climate talks."

"John Kerry, President Biden’s special envoy for climate change, said on Wednesday that the United States supported a phaseout of fossil fuels, his clearest statement yet on America’s position on one of the most intractable issues under debate at the United Nations climate talks in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Mr. Kerry said that “largely” ending the burning of coal, gas and oil was required to limit average global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels, which many scientists say is necessary to prevent the most catastrophic effects of climate change. The planet has already warmed by 1.2 degrees Celsius.

“We’ve got to do what the science tells us to do, and the science has been clear,” Mr. Kerry told reporters gathered at a news conference at the summit, known as COP28, which began on Nov. 30 and runs until Dec. 12."

Lisa Friedman reports for the New York Times December 6, 2023.

SEE ALSO:

"COP28: Will There Be An Agreement To Phase Out Fossil Fuels?" (Reuters)

"European Union Calls For “The Beginning Of The End” Of Fossil Fuels At COP28 Climate Talks" (AP)

"COP28: Is The World About To Promise To Ditch Fossil Fuels?" (BBC News)

"More Than 100 Countries at COP28 Call For Fossil Fuel Phaseout" (Inside Climate News)

Source: NYTimes, 12/07/2023